administration's handling of security before and its statements after september's attack on the u.s. consulate in libya. >> was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night who decided they would go kill some americans? what difference at this point does it make? >> reporter: analysts say in the wake of the benghazi attacks, there is greater focus on what the u.s. can and can't do in protecting its diplomats. >> if someone wants to take their live to take yours, there's very little that can be done. >> reporter: lou coffee is an international security expert at the heritage foundation. he says keeping the bomber from entering the embassy played a key role in reducing the casualties. >> they refused to let the suicide bomber. in he exploded himself outside. >> reporter: what remains to be seen, analysts say, is if friday's attack was an isolated one to send a message, or the start of a new wave of violence aimed at u.s. facilities in turkey. turns out, this is not the first time u.s. diplomatic facilities in turkey have been targeted. back in 2008, al-qae